The parish is the center of most Catholics’ spiritual life. It is there that they receive the sacraments and foster a Catholic community with other parishioners. Just as important as it is to church members, parishes are vital to the Church. They are the heart of the Church, and it is through these communities of faith that the Gospel is proclaimed and celebrated every day in many and diverse ways.

The Capuchin Franciscans of the Province of St. Mary have ministered in parishes in New York State and New England for nearly 160 years and continue to serve the people of God in many active and dynamic parish communities.